Is Ozempic covered in BC? Type 2 diabetes, weight loss and the generic

Coverage depends on the use

BC PharmaCare covers Ozempic (semaglutide) only for type 2 diabetes, and only with Special Authority approved on a doctor's request. It is not covered for weight loss.^[1]

Criteria for type 2 diabetes

• Metformin has been taken at the maximum tolerated dose for about 3 months and blood sugar is still not controlled; the doctor submits the Special Authority request.
• Reimbursement runs through Fair PharmaCare, so a deductible applies.

Use for weight loss

PharmaCare does not cover semaglutide for weight loss. Wegovy is still under review with no decision. A doctor prescribing Ozempic for weight loss is prescribing off-label, and the cost is out of pocket.^[1]

Generic semaglutide

Generic semaglutide from Dr. Reddy's and Apotex was approved by Health Canada at the end of April 2026 and reached pharmacies in late May, making Canada the first G7 country to have it. The approved indication is type 2 diabetes in adults. Apotex has said its price is about one third of the brand-name drug.^[3][4]

Prices have fallen since the generic arrived. Check PharmaCare's price table and your pharmacy's quote, and ask the pharmacist how the generic is reimbursed when you fill the prescription.^[2]

Risks of cheap online sources

In January 2026 Health Canada warned about counterfeit Ozempic and Mounjaro sold through retail channels. Compounded semaglutide is an unauthorized product. Medicines from unknown sellers at implausibly low prices carry real risk.^[5]